A project to showcase the rich and varied history of Otley Courthouse will reach its culmination this spring.

The Otley Courthouse Memories Group is using a Heritage Lottery Fund award to create a permanent Timeline display at the venue.

Arranged to coincide with the Courthouse’s tenth anniversary since being transformed into an arts centre, the timeline will feature display boards giving a factual and pictorial history of the building.

It will be unveiled in the property’s preserved cell block on May 1.

Memories Group member Jean Crawford said: “The timeline will be a permanent historical record of the Courthouse and its changing role in the town through the years.

“Built in 1856, the building has undergone numerous changes both structurally and in its use.

“The timeline will record its functions as Otley’s fire station, police headquarters, magistrates court and as a place for holding prisoners in the cell block.

“The property ceased being a court in 1997, and the timeline will also mark the past decade since its transformation as an arts centre.

“The information will include people’s memories, archive records, newspaper reports and photographs.”

The group is still keen to receive any further contributions of Courthouse-related photographs or memorabilia – call Jean on 07951 788909.